What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A Deep Plane Facelift is one of the most advanced and sophisticated facelift techniques available today. This procedure is designed to rejuvenate the deeper anatomical structures of the face, delivering natural, long-lasting, and dynamic results.

Unlike traditional facelift techniques that primarily tighten the skin, a deep plane facelift focuses on repositioning the underlying facial muscles and connective tissues (SMAS layer). By addressing the deeper layers of the face, this technique restores youthful contours, natural facial movement, and a refreshed appearance without an over-tightened look.

How Is a Deep Plane Facelift Different?

Traditional facelift techniques mainly target surface skin laxity, which can sometimes result in a less natural appearance over time. In contrast, the Deep Plane Facelift:

• Lifts and repositions deeper facial tissues

• Restores mid-face volume and contour

• Improves sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck

• Preserves natural facial expressions

• Provides longer-lasting results compared to standard facelifts

This makes it an ideal option for patients seeking a comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?

A Deep Plane Facelift may be suitable for patients who:

• Have moderate to advanced facial aging

• Experience sagging in the mid-face, jowls, and neck

• Desire natural-looking, long-term results

• Want to avoid an overly tight or “pulled” appearance

A detailed consultation is essential to determine whether this technique is the most appropriate option.

Deep Plane Facelift in Antalya with Dr. Altan Tekin

At Altan Tekin Clinic in Antalya, Dr. Altan Tekin, a board-certified plastic surgeon, performs Deep Plane Facelift surgery using advanced surgical principles and meticulous technique. His approach prioritizes:

• Natural facial harmony

• Long-lasting rejuvenation

• Preservation of facial expression

• Patient safety and comfort

Each procedure is individually planned to match the patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring refined and balanced results.

Recovery After a Deep Plane Facelift

Recovery after a Deep Plane Facelift is generally smoother than many traditional facelift techniques, as the skin is not excessively tightened. At Altan Tekin Clinic in Antalya, recovery protocols are carefully planned to ensure patient comfort and optimal results.

What to expect during recovery:

• First 3–5 days: Swelling, bruising, and mild tightness are normal

• 1–2 weeks: Most swelling subsides; sutures are usually removed

• 2–3 weeks: Patients often feel comfortable returning to social activities

• 4–6 weeks: Facial contours settle into a more natural appearance

• 3 months: Final results become clearly visible

Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity, protect the face from sun exposure, and follow all post-operative instructions closely.

How Long Does a Deep Plane Facelift Last?

One of the main advantages of a Deep Plane Facelift is its long-lasting results. Because the deeper facial muscles and connective tissues are repositioned rather than just the skin, results tend to age more naturally.

Longevity of results:

• Typically 10–15 years, depending on lifestyle, genetics, and skin quality

• Maintains natural facial movement over time

• Slower return of sagging compared to traditional facelifts

While aging continues naturally, patients look significantly younger than their chronological age for many years.

Deep Plane Facelift FAQ

Is a Deep Plane Facelift painful?

Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and well controlled with prescribed medication. Most patients describe tightness rather than pain.

Will there be visible scars?

Incisions are carefully placed around the hairline and natural creases of the ear, making scars discreet and barely noticeable once healed.

How soon can I travel after surgery?

International patients can usually travel 7–10 days after surgery, following a post-operative check at Altan Tekin Clinic in Antalya.

When can I return to work?

Most patients return to non-physical work within 2–3 weeks, depending on their comfort level and healing speed.

Can a Deep Plane Facelift be combined with other procedures?

Yes. It is commonly combined with neck lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), brow lift, or fat transfer for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Is a Deep Plane Facelift suitable for younger patients?

This technique is typically recommended for patients with moderate to advanced facial aging, but suitability is determined during a personalized consultation.

Are the results natural?

Yes. The Deep Plane Facelift is specifically designed to deliver natural-looking, non-pulled results while preserving facial expression.

Deep Plane Facelift Patient Journey

From First Consultation to Final Results

🟢 Step 1: Online Consultation (Week -4 to -2)

Your journey begins with an online consultation at Altan Tekin Clinic, Antalya.
During this stage:

• Facial aging patterns are assessed

• Medical history is reviewed

• Expectations and goals are discussed

• Deep Plane Facelift suitability is confirmed

📌 A personalized treatment plan is created.

🟢 Step 2: Travel & Pre-Operative Assessment (Day -1)

Upon arrival in Antalya, you will attend a face-to-face consultation with Dr. Altan Tekin.

• Detailed facial examination

• Pre-operative photographs

• Final surgical planning

• Blood tests and anesthesia assessment

📌 All preparations are completed safely and efficiently.

🟢 Step 3: Surgery Day (Day 0)

Your Deep Plane Facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

• Duration: approximately 4–6 hours

• Advanced deep-plane technique applied

• Deeper facial tissues repositioned for natural results

📌 Patients are monitored closely and typically stay overnight.

🟢 Step 4: Early Recovery (Days 1–7)

This phase focuses on rest and healing.

• Swelling and bruising gradually decrease

• Compression garments may be used

• Pain is usually mild and well controlled

• Post-operative checks at the clinic

📌 Stitches are often removed within this period.

🟢 Step 5: Return to Social Life (Weeks 2–3)

• Most swelling subsides

• Facial contours begin to look natural

• Patients often feel confident resuming social activities

• International patients can usually travel home

📌 Results are visible but still improving.

🟢 Step 6: Refinement Phase (Weeks 4–6)

• Facial tissues settle further

• Skin texture and contour improve

• Final shape becomes more defined

📌 Light exercise may be resumed with approval.

🟢 Step 7: Final Results (3–6 Months)

• Full healing is achieved

• Facial movement appears completely natural

• Long-lasting rejuvenation becomes evident

📌 Patients enjoy a younger, refreshed appearance for years.